The rich cultural and natural highlights between Melbourne and Sydney make veering off the major highways a great travel option. The Capital & Country Touring Route weaves into attractive regional centres with gold rush heritage and grandeur, to towns magnificently set alongside the gracious Murray River and then to Australia’s capital city Canberra, where significant galleries and museums showcase the heart of Australia.

The experiences are varied, with stunning countryside, quality attractions, historic streetscapes and seasonal produce & wine along the way. People choosing this journey between two of Australia’s major cities will discover the following destinations -

Bendigo – A RICH AND GOLDEN PAST.
Impressive Victorian buildings stand as a reminder of the rich history built from one of the world’s most exciting gold rushes. More gold was found in Bendigo between 1850 and 1900 than anywhere else in the world. Today art, culture, food, wine and heritage attractions are the new riches of Bendigo.

Echuca-Moama – A CHARMING RIVERBOAT PORT.
Take to the waters in Echuca-Moama. It is the “paddlesteamer” capital of Australia, with an early history as a bustling riverboat port. Now as a reminder of the boom times, it is an everyday event to hear the nostalgic whistle of the riverboats as they continue to grace the Murray River.

Yarrawonga-Mulwala – AN INLAND AQUATIC PARADISE.
An idyllic and picturesque place. Enjoy stunning scenery, serene bushlands, water activities on Lake Mulwala and the beauty of the Murray River. Stunning river beaches can be found at every turn along the river, creating the perfect place for a holiday on the water.

Albury-Wodonga – THE GATEWAY TO THE MURRAY RIVER.
Step back in time to a place where country style meets city sophistication. Once a busy trade route for paddlesteamers, the Murray River is now very much a part of Albury Wodonga's relaxed and attractive lifestyle. The stylish streetscape is a charming mix of stately heritage buildings, established parks and gardens and tree-lined streets.

Canberra – SEE A NATION REFLECTED IN ITS CAPITAL.
Discover Australia by visiting the one city designed to reflect the entire nation. Hidden beneath Canberra’s leafy surrounds is a thriving modern city with national attractions that hold and share the treasures of the nation, as well as fun for the kids, a busy calendar of events and festivals, and stylish restaurants, bars and shops.

The towns and villages featured along the Capital & Country Touring Route truly capture the Australian spirit and heritage.